Scheme Overview
The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is a savings scheme specifically designed for girls under 18. Launched in 2015, the program aims to financially support expenses
related to the girl child's education and marriage. Parents or legal guardians can open an account in the girl's name from her birth until she reaches the age of 10. The scheme’s appeal stems from its attractive features, including a relatively high-interest rate and tax advantages, making it one of the most rewarding savings options available from the government. The primary goal is to foster a disciplined approach to saving while ensuring financial security and independence for girls, with a focus on their future education, well-being, and financial empowerment. The scheme underscores the government's commitment to supporting the well-being and future of girl children across India.
Attractive Interest Rates
A significant draw of the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is its attractive interest rate. Currently, the scheme offers an annual interest rate of 8.2%, which is subject to quarterly revisions by the government. This rate is notably higher compared to many fixed deposit schemes offered by banks. This higher interest rate ensures that the invested money grows at a comparatively rapid pace, offering substantial returns over the long term. This feature makes it an appealing option for parents looking for a savings plan that offers both security and attractive returns. The advantage of the interest rate helps in accumulating a sizable corpus that can significantly aid in financing significant life events such as education and marriage for the girl child, securing her financial future effectively.
Opening and Deposits
Opening an account under the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is designed to be accessible, requiring only a minimum initial deposit of Rs 250. This low initial investment makes it easy for a wide range of parents to start saving for their daughters. The scheme allows deposits up to a maximum of Rs 1.5 lakh per year. Contributions can be made either in a lump sum or through regular installments, offering flexibility to suit different financial situations. Deposits are required only for the initial 15 years from the date the account is opened. After this period, the invested amount continues to accrue interest until the account matures when the girl turns 21. This design allows for sustained growth of the investment even after active contributions cease.
Financial Security
The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana prioritizes long-term financial security for girls. The accumulated funds are primarily intended to be available at critical times, such as for higher education or marriage. This feature provides a financial safety net, ensuring that funds are accessible when needed most. The scheme aims to build a significant corpus over a 21-year period, by allowing parents to regularly invest small amounts. The focus is to transform these savings into a strong and secure financial foundation for the child's future. This approach helps in building a financially secure future and also promotes disciplined savings habits, which can be crucial for the financial independence of girls as they grow older.
11 Years of Trust
The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana marked its 11th year on January 22, showcasing the strong trust it has garnered. Since its launch, over 4.53 crore accounts have been opened across the country, indicating its widespread acceptance and popularity among Indian families. The increasing number of accounts reflects the confidence parents place in the scheme as a reliable savings option for their daughters. The consistent growth in account openings demonstrates the scheme's enduring appeal. This has further solidified its reputation as a safe and rewarding investment that aligns with the long-term financial goals of Indian parents looking to secure their daughter's future.
Tax Benefits and Growth
The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana offers significant tax advantages, with returns completely tax-free. This tax-exempt status enhances the attractiveness of the scheme, allowing the invested amount to grow without tax deductions. The higher interest rates, combined with tax benefits, help in accelerating the accumulation of wealth. Total deposits under the scheme crossed Rs 3.33 lakh crore as of December 2025, which underscores the faith that families across India have in this savings program. The growth in deposits reflects a growing trend of families actively using the scheme to provide a strong financial foundation for their daughters. These tax benefits are a key factor in attracting investors and are a significant advantage compared to other investment options.
